**Man Accused of Setting Woman on Fire in Subway, Facing Murder Charges**
A 61-year-old woman was set on fire in a New York City subway car, and now the man accused of doing it is facing serious charges. Debrina Kawam, a resident of Toms River, New Jersey, was allegedly set on fire by Sebastian Zapeta, 33, on December 22nd at the Stilwell Avenue station in Coney Island, Brooklyn.
**The Accused**
Zapeta is accused of using a lighter to set the fire and then fanning the flames with his shirt. He faces one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and one count of first-degree arson. These charges carry significant penalties, with the possibility of life without parole.
**The Investigation**
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated that these are important charges, and his office is confident in the evidence in the case. “First-degree murder carries the possibility of life without parole. It is the toughest statute in New York State law, and my office is very confident in the evidence in this case and in our ability to hold Zapeta accountable,” Gonzalez said.
**Additional Charges Sought**
The New York Mayor’s office is pushing for additional federal charges in the case. The Mayor’s office stated that “lighting another person on fire and watching them burn alive reflects an intolerable level of evil.” If Zapeta is convicted, he will face severe penalties.
**Background on the Accused**
Zapeta entered the U.S. illegally from Guatemala in 2018 and was deported, but later re-entered the country. His immigration status has been a topic of discussion in the case.
**Trial Scheduled**
Zapeta is scheduled to stand trial on January 7, when the indictment will be officially unsealed. The trial will be a critical moment in the case, and the outcome will determine the fate of Zapeta.
**Background on the Victim**
Debrina Kawam, the victim, was a 61-year-old resident of Toms River, New Jersey. The incident highlights the dangers of violence in public spaces and the need for increased vigilance.
**FAQs**
Q: What happened to the woman who was set on fire in the subway?
A: Debrina Kawam was set on fire in a subway car at the Stilwell Avenue station in Coney Island, Brooklyn, on December 22nd.
Q: Who is accused of setting the fire?
A: Sebastian Zapeta, 33, is accused of using a lighter to set the fire and then fanning the flames with his shirt.
Q: What charges is Zapeta facing?
A: He faces one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and one count of first-degree arson.
Q: What penalties could Zapeta face if convicted?
A: The penalties include the possibility of life without parole.
Q: What is the status of Zapeta’s immigration status?
A: Zapeta entered the U.S. illegally from Guatemala in 2018 and was deported, but later re-entered the country.
Q: What is the scheduled trial date for Zapeta?
A: The trial is scheduled for January 7, when the indictment will be officially unsealed.
**Conclusion**
The case highlights the severity of violence in public spaces and the importance of increased vigilance. The severe charges against Zapeta demonstrate the seriousness of the alleged crime, and the outcome of the trial will determine the fate of the accused.
